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THE GYPSY 



A Drama in Three Acts 

(Adapted from the French) 



By ANTHONY E. WILLS 

Author of "College Chums," "Count of No Account," "Eastsiders," 

"Just Plain Folks," "New England Folks," Oak Farm," 

"Stubborn Motor Car," "Matin6e Idol," "Benjamin, 

Benny and Ben," "Too Many Husbands," etc.,etc. 



Copyright, 1911, by Dick & Fitzgerald 



NEW YORK 

DICK & FITZGERALD 

18 ANN STREET 






CCI.D 23938 



Note. — The acting rights of this Play are expressly 
reserved by the Publishers to whom Theatrical Managers, 
who wish to produce it, should apply. Amateur repre- 
sentation may be made without such application and 
without charge. 



THE GYPSY 



CHARACTERS 

Col. Dexter, (a Wealthy Southerner) Old man 

Russell Ford, (a Government surveyor) . .Juvenile Lead 

Cal. Chase, (president of the Chase Bank) Heavy 

Jean Rossi, (the Gypsy) Character Lead 

Gaston, (his companion) Character 

Zeb. Hickman, (Sheriff of Danville Cown^;/) . .Character 

Alec, (a colored servant) Character 

Charlotte, (Col. Dexter' s wife) Old Woman 

Madalyn, (Col. Dexter' s supposed daughter) .Ingenue Lead 



Time. — Summer of the year 1880. 

Locality. — Milton, near Green Mountains, Virginia. 

Time of Playing. — Two hours and a half. 



SYNOPSIS. 

Act I. — Home of Colonel Dexter. 
Act II. — The Bungalow. Fwe days later. . 

Act III. — A wood near Green Mountains. The next] 
morning. 



The Gypsy 



COSTUMES AND CHARACTERISTICS. 

Costumes and description are given on the first en- 
trance of each character. 



PROPERTIES. 

Wallet for the Colonel. Pack of playing cards, wood 
for fire, revolver, stick to whittle for Gaston. Revolver, 
two letters, handcuffs for Zeb. Revolver, two coins, 
crop, visiting card, money for Cal. Legal document, 
gun, revolver for Rossi. Ring, writing material, letter, 
picture, lamp, locket for Madalyn. Field glasses for 
Ford. 



STAGE DIRECTIONS. 

As seen by a performer on the stage facing the audi- 
ence, R. means the right hand; l., the left hand; c, 
center of the stage; up, toward the rear; down, toward 
the footlights. 



THE GYPSY 



ACT I. 



Scene. — A set house h., a rustic wall or fence running from 
R. to h., at back, with opening c. Rustic table with two 
chairs r. c. Rustic bench l, c. Landscape or wood 
drop at back. Green baize down. It is about four 
o'clock in the afternoon. ENTER Madalyn, a pretty 
girl of sixteen, wearing a bright colored dress. She 
enters from house and romping to gateway, looks about 
intently. 

Madalyn (calling). Alec? Oh, Alec! {Glances about) 
Where can he be, I wonder? What can be keeping him? 
(Goes up to gate again and looks off r.) Alec! Oh, Alec! 
(Then suddenly) Oh, here he comes now. (Waving hand) 
Hurry, Alec! Hurry! 

ENTER Alec, an old colored servant, in livery, through 
gate from l. carrying a basket. 

Madalyn. My, Alec! but it took you a long time to 
go to the Old Mill. Mr. Ford has already arrived, and 
we've been waiting for you. 

Alec, (wiping forehead with bandanna handkerchief). 
Has he now? Ah'm sorry ah delayed. Only Missey 
(looking around before continuing) what do you s'pose? 
What do you think I seed jes' now? 

Madalyn (puzzled). I don't know — I can't imagine. 

Alec, (still mysterious). Not spooks dis yar time — no, 
Missey — and no spirits nuther. 

Madalyn. My, Alec! your manner puzzles me. Don't 
keep me in this dreadful suspense. What was it? 



6 The Gypsy 

Alec, {looking around before speaking). Bet you can't 
guess. 

Madalyn (clapping her hands with curiosihj). Oh, 
please, Alec, don't keep me waiting. 

Alec. Sho' as you are a standin' dar — I see a real, 
live gypsy. 

Madalyn. A gypsy! How romantic! 

Alec. Yes, Missey, but it was more'n dat. In fact, 
two ob dem. Dey lives in a wagon, down yonder (points 
l.) at the turn of de road. 

Madalyn. How I should have loved to have seen 
them, Alec. 

Alec. Dat's what I thought. Mebbe taint too late 
yet, Missey. Dey tells fortunes. 

Madalyn. Fortunes? 

Alec. You bet. Fo' a quarter ob a dollar; and if 
one half of what dey told me comes true — Lordy, Missey — 
it wuz wurth hundreds o' dollars. Dat's sho' gospil, 
Missey. 

Madalyn (up to gateway, looking l.). Why, yes, I 
really do believe I can see the smoke from their camp-fire. 

Alec, (who has joined her). Dat's it, Missey — dat's it. 
Dat's de fire all right. 

Madalyn (warynly). Wouldn't I like to have my for- 
tune told! But dad would never hear of it, I know. 

Alec. Mebbe— somehow — it might be 'ranged, Missey. 

Madalyn (all interest). How, Alec. — do tell me how? 

Alec, (scratching head thoughtfully). Well, I don't 
know fo' sho' but mebbe I might be able to — to 

Charlotte (calls from within). Madalyn, dear! Oh, 
Madalyn! 

Madalyn. Mama's calling me. (Crossing to house) 
Quick, Alec, what were you going to say? 

Alec. Well, I thought mebbe I might be able to fix 
it with de gypsies fo' you to meet 'em at the gate as they 
pass on dere way to the village. 

Madalyn. I wish you would, Alec. Oh, don't I hope 
you can manage it. [Exit into house. 

Alec, (scratching head). Yes — and mebbe I'll manage 
tu put dis ya' old head ob mine in a noose. De Colonel 



The Gypsy 7 

would probably gib me de grand bounce. (Going up to 
gate — looking off h., then toward house) But p'shaw — 
dere can't be no harm in fortune telling — so long's it's de 
truth and dat gypsy sho' did tell me de truff. Didn't he 
say I was one ob the brightest men in 'Ginia? Yes, 
indeedy — and dat's gone some I reckon. (Pauses an 
instant) Ah'll jes take a chance and hab dem gypsies 
come here by de gate — den Missey Madalyn kin all decide 
fo' herself — and it won't be my funeral no how. 

[Shambles off through gateway h. 

ENTER from house, Colonel Dexter, a dignified 
Southern gentleman, about sixty years of age, wearing a 
smoking jacket, followed by Russell Ford, a government 
surveyor, wearing a blue suit, soft hat, leggings, and field 
glasses over one shoulder. 

Colonel. Well, my boy, it seems good to see you 
once again. Of all persons, I never suspected the gov- 
ernment would send us such a surprise. 

Russell (laughingly) . I beUeve, in a measure, I helped 
bring the thing about. 

Colonel. Indeed? 

Russell. For when I learned the officials had decided 
to survey this section, I asked for the assignment. 

Colonel. Sly dog — to renew your old acquaintance- 
ships, eh? 

Russell (warmly). To be near my old friends. 

Colonel (offering hand). My boy, Fm proud of your 
success. 

Russell (shaking his hand). Thank you. Colonel. 

Colonel (his hand on Russell's shoulder). Your 
father would be the happiest man in the world could he 
be here to witness it. 

Russell. It's awfully good of you to say so. Colonel. 
(Then changing subject) And you really believe you've 
struck a rich coal vein on your plantation? 

Colonel (cautiously, looking about before speaking). 
Not quite so loud, my son. I've not a doubt of it. We 
happened upon the lucky strike quite by accident only a 



8 The Gypsy- 

few daj's ago. From the look of things I've struck it 
very, very rich. 

Russell. I'm awfully glad to hear it. 

Colonel. My boy, I know that. Only the informa- 
tion is not for publication as yet. Not a soul outside of 
myself knows what you do. (With chuckle) There 
might be a — well, you know the trite saying about the 
cup and the slip. 

Russell (joining in the laugh). You bet I do — for 
I've experienced it, Colonel. 

ENTER Madaly^ from house. 

Madalyn. Oh, you're out here. (Coquettishly) Busi- 
ness again? 

Colonel. Yes, my dear — business again. (Crossing 
to house) But I promise you we'll no more of it before 
dinner. (To Madalyn) Entertain Russell until I dress. 
(To Russell, imth a bou') Excuse me for a few moments. 

Russell. Why, certainly. 

[EXIT Colonel into house. 

Madalyn (anxiously going to him). Well, did you 
speak to father about the 

Russell (his hands on her shoulders). No, dear, your 
dad persisted in talking business 

Madalyn (perturbed). Always horrid business! (Stamps 
foot.) 

Russell. But I'll get an opportunity after dinner, 
I'm sure — when we've adjourned for our cigars. 

Madalyn. Please don't delay or something may 
happen to interfere with our happiness. 

Russell (lightly). Nonsense, dear, what could happen? 

Madalyn. Oh, I don't know. I've had such fears — 
such awful fears of late. Simply a presentiment of some 
kind, I suppose. 

Russell. There, there. I don't believe it possible 
your father would refuse his consent to our marriage. 

Madalyn. I hope not, anyway. (Looking around) 
The shadows are deepening. It's growing chilly. (Cross- 
ing to house) Don't you think we'd better be going in? 



The Gypsy 9 

Russell. Just as you say. 

[EXIT Madalyn into house. 
Russell {crossing to house). What did she mean, I 
wonder? (Slowly repeating) "Simply a presentiment of 
some kind, I suppose." Those were her very words. 
(Starting) Good heaven, can anything have happened 
to mar our happiness? (Then recovering composure) No, 
I'll put no stock in it! I won't believe it! 

EXIT into house. 

ENTER Alec, from l., coming through gate, followed by 
Jean Rossi, a middle-aged man, with gray straggling locks 
framing a fine, kindly face, and garbed as a gypsy. Close 
at his heels comes Gaston, his companion, a small, sad- 
faced, slightly deformed gypsy. 

Alec, (finger to lips). S-h. Right dis way — right dis 
way. I may hab a job fo' you. Ain't sartin fo' sho' 
but jes yo' all wait heah and ah'll see. (Looking around 
before speaking) But don't you all go fo' to say ah 
invited yo' heah. It am distinctly understood I ain't 
had nuthin' tu do wid this — yo heah me? I don't want 
to git into no trouble — yo' all understan' dat? 

Rossi (shakes head slowly in the affirmative). Perfectly, 
perfectly. 

Alec. Well, I hope so, anyway. I'm takin' chances 
fo' sho'. [EXIT into house. 

(Gaston glancing nervously about, discovers a silver 
paper-cutter on the table, cautiously moves towards it, 
quickly picks it up and attempts to secrete it on his person.) 

Rossi (ivho has watched his every movement, seizes 
Gaston by wrist). Drop it, Gaston! Drop it! 

Gaston. Noble master, I was only 

Rossi (shaking him. Firmly). Drop it, I say! 

Gaston (looks at Rossi an instant, then realizing he is 
in earnest, drops paper-cutter to floor.) 

Rossi (releases him, shoving him l.). I thought I'd 
broken you of that habit. (Picks up paper-cutter.) 



10 The Gypsy 

Gaston {noiv on knees l. Brokenly). Noble master, I 
implore your forgiveness. 

Rossi. Oh, Gaston — Gaston— I thought you always 
kept your promises. I'm surprised — ashamed at you! 
(Suddenly starts. Glances r.) What was that? 

Gaston {nervously crawls to bench and crouches behind 
same). I heard nothing, master. 

Rossi {replaces paper-cutter to table). There it is again. 
Listen! {Both pause attentively for an instant. To Gas- 
ton) Some one may have witnessed your thieving act. 

Gaston. No, no, master — don't say that. (Ner- 
vously) In heaven's name don't say that. 

Rossi. In which event we are lost — lost, do you hear? 
(Starts again) Listen! (Then after a pause) Lay 
low, some one approaches. (Crouches behind table r. 
Gaston behind bench l.) 

ENTER through gate from n. Cal. Chase, a good-looking 
man about twenty-five years of age, in riding costume, car- 
rying crop. 

Cal. (crosses to door of house). What the devil could 
have brought Ford back here, I wonder? (Bitterly) And 
I thought the race over — I believed it won. They must 
have been corresponding together all these years! What 
a fool I was not to have guessed it. Love is blind they 
say — and I've been very much in love. They've com- 
pletely out-generalled me. I've been tricked — beaten at 
my own game. I've been a fool! (Long whistle off r. 
starts) Hello — the signal! (up to gate at back) What 
can Zeb. want of me now? (Long whistle again. An- 
swers whistle and loaves hand) Must be something of im- 
portance to bring him out here. (Comes down.) 

ENTER through gate from r. Zeb. Hickman, a good- 
sized, red-faced, uncouth, dark-haired, smooth- shaven South- 
erner, wearing black frock coat, trousers tucked in boots and 
black felt hat; carries a revolver in holster about his waist. 

Zeb. (looking around cautiously). Hello, Cal. Is it 
0. K? 



The Gypsy ii 

Cal. {anxiously). Yes — speak quickly! Out with it! 

Zeb. You hadn't left the postoffice a minute when I 
heard the postmaster say a letter had just come for 
Calvin Chase — so I brought it to you. {Holds out letter) 
Here it is. 

Cal. {anxioush/ taking it). Ah, yes — thanks — I've been 
waiting to hear from New York for a month. 

Zeb. I told old Dunham, the postmaster, I'd chase 
after you, but I never reckoned on a three-mile race. 
{Wipes forehead with handkerchief, then dusts boots with 
same) You sure did make that nag o' your'n cover the 
ground. 

Cal. {eagerly opening envelope) . What can the verdict 
be? {Reads letter and starts) My God! 

Zeb. {catching him in arms). What is it, Cal? What is 
it? 

Cal, Oh, I'm in for it, I guess — a ruined man — stone 
broke — unless — {Glances toward house) Yes, it's my 
one — my only chance now. {Has fully recovered.) 

Zeb. What's happened? 

Cal. Oh, I've gone the pace — {Glances around be- 
fore continuing) — you know that fully as well as I do. 
That campaign of your'n alone cost me twenty thousand. 
Then that Morley woman in New York has robbed me of 
a small fortune, and now — and now {Brokenly) this 
comes {Referring to letter) my mining stocks are com- 
pletely wiped out. 

Zeb. {slowly). Then the bank? 

Cal. Will go to the wall unless 

Zeb. Unless what? 

Cal. {looking around before speaking). Unless old Dex- 
ter comes to my rescue. 

Zeb. He can't help aidin' you since you're to be his 
son-in-law. 

Cal. {bitterly). And that's no sure thing now. 

Zeb. {surprised). Why, you don't mean to say 

Cal. I've a competitor, I'm afraid. You remember 
Russ Ford? 

Zeb. Yes — his dad owned the next plantation. The 
boy pulled up stakes and piked it North to study. 



12 The Gypsy 

Cal. {looking toward house). And now, damn him, he's 
come back. 

Zeb. Come back, eh? (Whistles significantly) I see. 

Cal. If my supposition is correct, Madalyn and he 
have corresponded together all these years, and I'm 
plumb froze out. 

Zeb. Pshaw, reckon it ain't as bad as all that. Can't 
I help in some fashion? {Taps revolver) I've got a way, 
you know. 

Cal. {quickly). No, no — not that way— not that way. 
I'll try my own way first. Murder should always be the 
court of last resort. And now you'd better go. {Glanc- 
ing around) S-h. Here comes Alec. I'll see you to 
your horse and then come back. 

[EXIT BOTH through gate, going B. 

ENTER Alec, from house. 

Alec, {looking around). Hello! I sho' left dem gyp- 
sies out y'ere and now dey's out o' sight — completely 
disappeared. {Now c.) I wonder where dey could a 
got to? 

Rossi and Gaston {simultaneously present themselves 
to view). Here — kind sir! 

Alec, {starts). Lordy me, yo' all near skeered me tu 
death. {Trembling) Don't yo' try no moh ob dem 
spook tantrums on me — no indeedy. Ma heart won't 
stand it no how. 

Rossi {anxiously). And the lady? 

Alec. She's to dinner and can't see yo' 'bout her for- 
tune. Leastwise, I couldn't git word to her on 'count 
ob her dad. {Waving hands) So travel along. After 
thinking it ovah, mebbe it's better she don't see yo' all. 
{Waving hands and shooing them, off) So travel along. 

Rossi {to Gaston). Alas, Gaston, disappointment is 
once more our lot. 

Gaston {sadly). It always greets us with its laughing 
face. 

Alec, {at door of house). What's dat? Don't yo' call 
me no "laughing face." {Waving hands) Travel along 



The Gypsy 13 

yo' all heah me? — travel along. [EXIT into house. 

Gaston {looking after him. Bitterly — imitating Alec.) 
Travel along — travel along. 

Rossi (placing arms about his shoulders). There, there, 
Gaston. Things will brighten for us in the near future. 
Hard luck can not always be our portion. {Looking 
toward r.) But our two gentlemen friends 

Gaston. Ah, they mean this household no good, I 
vow. {Bitterly) It requires a fine coat to cover a multi- 
tude of sins. 

Rossi {quickly). Hush, some one approaches. We 
had best be making 'way. 

Gaston {bitterly). Travel along — yes, travel along. 
(They start for gateway.) 

ENTER Cal. Chase through gateway from R. 

Cal. (observing them). Hello, whom have we here? 
Gypsies, as I five. (Looks them over.) 

Rossi (with sweeping bow). Gypsies, good sir. 

Gaston (with bow, referring to Rossi). Know my 
master, the renowned Jean Rossi, who pries into the 
future, unfolds the present and makes known the past. 

Cal. (with laugh). A wonderful personage, indeed! 
Tells fortunes, eh? What a lark. By Jove, you shall 
acquaint me with my destiny. (Produces coin.) 

Rossi (hardly believing him). Really, good sir? 

Cal. If you are as good as your friend's word (Re- 
ferring to coin) this gold piece shall be yours. And I'll 
wager twice the amount, you cannot tell me my name. 
(Gaston significantly nudges Rossi, and unseen by Cal. 
heartily laughs.) 

Rossi. The telling of names is my specialty — one of 
the easiest things I do. (Gaston hands Rossi pack of 
playing cards. Rossi holding pack out to Cal.) Select 
your card. 

Cal. (highly amused — does so). Now, then — remember 
my offer — twice the amount if you can tell me my name. 
But remember it is neither White, Brown, nor Black. 



14 The Gypsy- 

Rossi (looking at card — then seriously). Your name is 
Chase — Calvin Chase, kind friend. 

Cal. (starts). The devil you say. 

Rossi (calmly). No, I said Chase — Calvin Chase. 

Cal. (down to table). This grows interesting. Be 
seated. (Rossi sits r. of table. Gaston stands back of 
same). 

Cal. (sitting L.). Goon. You have guessed my name. 
What else? 

Rossi. Ah, but first the little matter 

Cal. What little matter? 

Rossi (rubbing hands together. Smilingly). Of "twice 
the amount." 

Cal. (confusedly taking coin from pocket). Oh, yes — 
quite so. I'd almost forgotten. 

Rossi. Thank you. (Holding out pack) And now 
select another card. (Cal. gingerly does so.) 

Rossi (looking at card). You are president of a large 
institution — in fact, a bank — a bank which bears your 
name. You have lost much money of late 

Cal. (nervously). Yes, yes 

Rossi. And are at present, financially involved. (Cal. 
nervously glances about.) 

Rossi. In fact, standing on the brink of ruin unless — 

Cal. (eagerly). Unless what? 

Rossi. Unless you repair your shattered fortune by 
a marriage to 

Cal. (bringing hand heavily down on table). Enough of 
this — enough! (Looking at Rossi) Who are you that 
you should tell me this? (Breathing hard) My word — 
how did you know? 

Rossi (coolly toying with cards). The cards, good gen- 
tleman — I read it in the cards. 

Cal. (scattering cards from table). You read too much 
in the cards. (Tossing coin on table) There is what I 
promised you. Now be off — off, do you hear? (Going 
to house. Then halting) But stay. I must see you 
again before you leave this vicinity. 

Gaston. Our camp is in the valley yonder. (Points 
offh.) 



The Gypsy t5 

Cal. Very well. I will probably call on you. Await 
me there. And now be gone — be gone! 

Rossi (nudges Gaston and winks significantly. Then 
looks at coins). A fair day's profit. Many thanks, kind 
sir. (With sweeping bow) Good day. 

[EXIT through gateway l., bowing as he goes. 

Gaston. Adieu! Adieu! [EXIT through gateway l. 

Cal. How did the fellow know? How did he know? 
(Going r.) Witchcraft? Bah, not in these days. The 
knave guessed it, that's all. He guessed it. But I must 
know more of him before I feel at ease. His " guess work" 
was too near the truth for my comfort. (Looking l.) 
Hello, the Colonel. (Quickly moves r.) 

ENTER Colonel Dexter from house, wearing a frock 
coat, followed by Charlotte, his wife, a gray-haired, mild- 
mannered woman, and Madalyn. 

Cal. (with out-stretched hand). Ah, Colonel. 

Colonel (shaking his hand). My dear Calvin. 

Cal. (over to Charlotte, shaking her hand). Mrs. 
Dexter (Then to Madalyn) and Madalyn. 

Charlotte. Why didn't you let us know you were 
coming? We've just dined (Starts toward house) but I'll 
tell Mandy to 

Cal. Don't bother, please. I dined in town. The 
evening was so cool, I felt a ride would prove refreshing. 
(Charlotte and Madalyn seat themselves on bench.) 

Colonel (to Cal.). I'm glad you came. We've a sur- 
prise for you. Your old school fellow — Russell Ford, 
arrived to-day from the North. 

Cal. (bitterly). Yes, I heard something of the sort in 
town. 

Colonel. Russ. has made wonderful strides in his 
profession. Has charge of the entire Virginia Geo- 
graphical Department. (Takes Cal. up stage and en- 
gages him in conversation) It's wonderful — wonderful! 

Charlotte (looking back at them. Then to Madalyn). 
Madalyn, I feel you should inform your father of the 

Madalyn (alarmed). No, no, mother, I couldn't. 



1 6 The Gypsy 

Charlotte. Then / will tell him. 

Madalyn (grasping her by arm). No, no, mother. Dad 
will be so angry. He will 

Charlotte. Your father has a right to know, my 
dear. It is impossible to keep the truth from him longer. 
(To Colonel) Henry. 

Colonel (coming down). Well, Charlotte. 

Charlotte, I feel it is only right that you should 
know that Madalyn is in love. 

Colonel (starts). In love? 

Charlotte (to Madalyn). Don't be alarmed, child. 
(To Colonel) Forgive my also being a party to the 
deception, but Madalyn is in love with Russell Ford. 

Cal. (starts. Aside). Russell Ford — I thought so. 

Charlotte. And he has asked for her hand in mar- 
riage. 

Colonel (leans against chair l. of table). My God! 

ENTER Russell Ford from house. 

Charlotte (up to Colonel). Why, Henry, you're 
faint! What ails you, dear? Surely — surely you're not 
displeased with Madalyn's choice? 

Colonel (brokenly). No, no, it isn't that, only I 

Russell (crossing to him). Colonel, you're not angry 
with me? 

Colonel (dejectedly). No, no — it's — well, I don't know 
what to say. 

Charlotte (to Russell). The Colonel often has these 
attacks after dinner. He heartily consents to the mar- 
riage. The engagement can be announced to-morrow. 

Cal. (aside. Bitterly). Announced to-morrow! So 
I've lost out, eh? It's time I called on Zeb. to aid me. 
(Silently up to gate at back, intently loatching proceedings.) 

Colonel (now seated on chair). At last, at last I am 
face to face with the crisis. 

Charlotti: (over to him). Crisis? What crisis? Really 
Henry, I've never seen you act like this before. Aren't 
you going to give them your blessing? 



The Gypsy 17 

Colonel (loith difficulty). I wish I could, my dear, but 
there is an obstacle. 

All. An obstacle? (Cal. slowly withdraws l., looking 
back). 

Charlotte (nervously). You astound me, Henry. An 
obstacle? Surely we have the right to 

Colonel {up, his hands on Charlotte's shoulders). 
The time has come when you must know all — when I 
must speak. But first I must have a word with Russell 
— Mr. Ford — and alone. 

Charlotte (alarmed). Henry, Henry, what is it? 
What is it? 

Colonel (firmly). I must first see the lad — alone. 

Russell (crosses to Madalyn and takes her hand). 
Nothing on earth shall part us, my dear. Nothing. 

Charlotte (hesitates an instant). Oh, Henry, Henry, 
I don't know what to think. (Then crosses to Madalyn) 
Come, my dear. (Places arm about her, leads her to house, 
then looks back at Colonel and shakes her head sadly, as 
if not understanding.) 

[EXIT Charlotte and Madalyn slowly into house. 

Colonel (to Russell, when they are alone). Sit down a 
moment. (Motions to bench. Russell sits. Cal. slinks 
on at back at this moment and, unobserved by others, listens 
to following). 

Colonel (after a pause). My boy, I have no desire to 
oppose this union, but when I have done you will realize 
why the marriage can never take place. 

Russell. Oh, please don't keep me in this terrible 
suspense. What is it — what is this terrible secret? 

Colonel (quietly). Madalyn is not my daughter. 

Russell (slowly rising). Not your daughter! 

Colonel. Her real name is Helen Gray. 

Russell (repeating in a half daze). Helen Gray. 

Colonel. The daughter of a poor woman whom my 
plantation foreman befriended many years ago. 

Russell. But your wife believes that 

Colonel. Madalyn is our child. I had to do it. I 
had to deceive her. 

Russell (bowing head in hands). My God! 



18 The Gypsy 

Colonel (up, his hand on Russell's shoulder). I 
know it's hard, my boy — but you had to know the truth. 
I couldn't keep it from you. (Then, after a sigh) It was 
during the Civil War. I was badly wounded during the 
Battle of Blue Mountain, as you may have heard. The 
same day, my wife gave birth to a daughter, but the baby 
lived only an hour. Bereft of reason, my wife never 
knew this. The doctor, fearing, that should my wife 
realize her loss, it would prove fatal, prevailed upon me 
to substitute the child of the poor woman, to whom I 
have already referred. This substitution was known to 
none at the time save the doctor, the poor mother, and 
myself. My wife, even now, does not know of the decep- 
tion played upon her. To this day, I have never di- 
vulged the secret to any one. 

Russell. And Madalyn's father? 

Colonel. Was a knave — a scoundrel — but I knew 
almost nothing of him. The woman had been separated 
from her husband for several months, she said. He may 
now be dead — but, if living, is likely to appear at any 
time and claim his child. 

Russell, Horrible — horrible. 

Colonel. That has always been my greatest fear. 
The thought has made me an old man much before my 
time. 

Russell. Poor Madalyn! Poor, poor Madalyn! 

Colonel. Yes, poor Madalyn! How I am to make 
known the dreadful truth to her is beyond me. It will 
kill my poor wife, I know. 

Russell (looking up). No one knows the story, you 
say, save 

Colonel. You and I. The doctor who attended my 
wife has long since passed away. 

Russell (up). Then give us your blessing. I love 
Madalyn for herself alone. Let us both forget the secret. 
Let Madalyn live in ignorance of the truth and preserve 
her happiness and your dear wife's health. 

Colonel (offering hand. Warmly). My boy, I'm 
proud of you. It shall be as you wish. (Taking him by 
arm and leading him l.) You have lifted a great load 



The Gypsy 19 

from my mind. Come, let us relieve their minds as well. 

[EXIT both into house. 
Cal. (coming down c). So, that's it, eh? Was ever 
man in better luck? How fortunate I heard all. I must 
prevent this marriage. (Pauses) But how? How? (Af- 
ter another pause) Ah, I have it. I must produce a 
father! (Chuckles) A father to claim his living child. 
(Halts suddenly) Easier said than done, however. I'll 
get Zeb. Hickman to aid me. (up to gate. Halts) There 
may be work for the "Court of Last Resort." (Suddenly) 
Hello! By Jove, here's a chance! One of the gypsies is 
returning. Why not inveigle him into my scheme? The 
very idea. I'll do it! 

ENTER Rossi, with gun, through gateway from l. 

Cal. (hailing him). Ah, my good man, hunting in the 
woods? 

Rossi (looking about). 1 was told there's good quail 
near the stream yonder. 

Cal. I have something that will pay you better than 
hunting. 

Rossi. So? Then out with it. The business of for- 
tune telling is none too profitable in these parts. 

Cal. Perhaps that's because it's a dead art in this 
region. 

Rossi (puzzled. Coming down). A dead art? 

Cal. Every one hereabouts can read fortunes. 

Rossi. You surprise me. 

Cal. For instance, (Looking around before speaking) 
I can read your past life. 

Rossi. I hope not everything. It might prove my 
undoing. 

Cal. You are a married man. 

Rossi. True enough — I was. 

Cal. (looking around). You deserted your wife. 

Rossi (sternly looking at him). Why, how did you 

Cal. (continuing). And you have a daughter. 

Rossi. Ah, there I have you. The rest was true 
enough — but I never had a child. 



20 The Gypsy 

Cal. Your name is 

Rossi (firmly). Rossi — Jean Rossi. (Angrily) But 
enough of this. What are you driving at? 

Cal. (glancing about before again speaking). How 
would you Uke to earn a thousand dollars? 

Rossi (starting). How would I what? 

Cal. (repeating dowly). Like to earn a thousand 
dollars. 

Rossi. I suppose it's nothing short of murder. (Start- 
ing R.) I want none of your 

Cal. (restraining him). Wait a bit. Suppose it was 
easily earned. Suppose, for instance, you had but to 
return here in five minutes and claim a certain young 
lady as your daughter? 

Rossi (laughing). As my daughter? 

Cal. Force her to leave with you and 

Rossi. Do you take me for a fool? Why, that is kid- 
napping! (Starts R.) 

Cal. (restraining him once more). But not around 
here. The sheriff is my hireling; he takes his orders 
from me. Five minutes work and a small fortune is 
yours. 

Rossi (after a pause). It's a tempting morsel. I'll 
think it over. 

Cal. Good. 

Rossi. But, hold on. What do you gain by all this? 

Cal. Well, I suppose I must tell you. (Glances 
around) It's this way. This girl will come into a large 
fortune at the death of her foster father. Of that I 
know; further than this, already a number of deeds of 
valuable coal lands, providing for her future welfare, 
have been placed on record. Once she is under my con- 
trol, I have no fear as to the rest. Come, now, what do 
you say? 

Rossi. I say, you're a cunning rascal! 

Cal. The chapel where they keep all particulars of 
the births and deaths in this vicinity is only at the turn 
of the road. We can be gathering our proofs before your 
presentation. 

Rossi. You say the sheriff's 



The Gypsy 21 

Cal. Entirely under my control. It's not at all a 
risky business. 

Rossi. Well, I've been a miserable failure all these 
years, and I suppose should be forgiven for stooping so 
low. I'm only a poor dog without friend or future, so 
what's the odds? I'll do your bidding. I'll be your 
bogus father. 

Cal. {slapping him heavily on shoulder). Good! You'll 
not regret it. {Starts for gate) Wait! It wouldn't do 
for us to be seen together. {Looking around) 1 have it. 
You await me in the thicket. {Pointing l.) I'll hurry 
to the chapel and return as quickly as possible. When 
you hear my whistle, you will know all is well. Do you 
understand? 

Rossi. Everything. 

Cal. Good! Then to your hiding place. 

[EXIT Rossi through gate l. 

Cal. {triumphant). All is not lost even yet. If things 
pan out as I figure, I will win out after all. 

[EXIT Cal. through gate and off l. 

ENTER Alec, from house, goes to c. and looks off l. 

Alec. Hello, if dere ain't Marse Chase going toward 
the gypsy camp. I wonder whether he's gwine to hab 
his fortune told? Well, if he is, I'll bet he hears of a bad 
finish. Dat man nevah did strike me as bein' on de level, 
and I wouldn't be 'tall 'sprised to see him wind up in de 
lock-up, no, siree — not a bit. {Arranges chairs at table.) 

ENTER Zeb. Hickman, cautiously, through gate from 
R., looking back. 

Zeb. {at gate). Gad, what a narrow escape. 

Alec, {espying him). Howdy do, sheriff. 

Zeb. {starting). Oh, hello, Alec. I didn't know you 
were there. 

Alec. Yo' all kinder acted dat way. Yo 'pear 
mighty excited, Marse Sheriff — what's up? 

Zeb. {endeavoring to control himself). It's nothing — 



122 The Gypsy 

nothing. (Then with effort) I want to see the Colonel. 
Is he in? 

Alec. Yes, sah— but busy— very busy jes' now. A 
sort o' family confab ah reckon. De whole family am in 
de settin' room and 

Zeb. I must see him, and at once. 

Alec. Well, I dunno whether de Colonel — (Then 
changing tone) Impo'tant, yo' say, Marse Sheriff? 

Zeb. (glancing uneasily r.). Yes, very important. 

Alec. Well, den ah'll tell him. Mebbe he'll see yo' 
arter all. [EXIT into house. 

Zeb. (nervously). I wonder whether Cal. caught a 
glimpse of me darting behind those bushes? It wouldn't 
do for him to know I tried to double-cross him. I thought 
he'd gone to town. Gad, what luck. I espied him not a 
moment too soon. 

ENTER Colonel from house. 

Colonel (espying Zee.). Alec, said you wanted to see 
me, sheriff. 

Zeb. (coming down). Yes. Got a minute to spare? 

Colonel. Just about a minute. You interrupted me 
in a very important 

Zeb. (breaking in upon his line). Then I'll be brief. 
(Looking around before speaking) Colonel, I've got a 
proposition to make to you. 

Colonel (puzzled). That so? 

Zeb. Yes. Thinkin' perhaps you might want to sell 
out your place here, I've come to make you an offer. 

Colonel (on guard). You make an offer? Why, 
sheriff, I didn't know you 

Zeb. Well, to be candid with you — it taint me alone. 
I represent a company. 

Colonel (strokes mustache). Ah, I see. 

Zeb. a company as is buyin' up a lot o' land in this 
section. Willin' to pay a pretty fair figure, too. 

Colonel. Might I ask the name of this corporation? 

Zeb. (reluctantly). Well, I ain't at liberty to say — jes 
now. 



The Gypsy 23 

Colonel. Why are they so anxious to purchase my 
place? 

Zeb. No reason in particular that I know of — 'cept 
they looked it over and liked it. 

Colonel (starts). Looked it over? When? 

Zeb. {biting lip). Well — perhaps I shouldn't have said 
that. 

Colonel (angered). Ah — now I know. Two nights 
ago, Alec, thought he saw some trespassers in the North 
Field. I believed him mistaken. Now I know the truth. 
They were spies! Your corporation is the notorious Vir- 
ginia Coal Company! Not content with prowling about 
my grounds at night, of all persons, they send you here 
to complete their scheming plot. Go back to your em- 
ployers! Tell them I know all about the coal ore in the 
North Field. Tell them their plan has failed, and that 
no offer they might make would now be acceptable to 
me. (At door of house.) 

Zeb. But, Colonel — one moment — let me explain! 
Let me 

Colonel. Not another word! Go, sir! Go! before 
I summon my servants and have you forcibly ejected 
from my grounds. [EXIT angrily into house. 

Zeb. (completely taken by surprise). Well, what do you 
think of that? The whole plan a complete fizzle. And 
after all our weeks of hard work. (With a chuckle) The 
old man must have known about the coal vein all along 
— and we thought him ignorant of the fact. (Starting 
toward gate) Well, I did the best I could. The boys 
can't blame me. (Looking l.) It wouldn't do to run 
into Cal. again. Guess I'll take the short cut into town. 

[EXIT offn., behind wall. 

Alec, (pokes head out of door of house). Nobody 'bout? 
(Stretches neck and looks around, then comes gingerly out) 
Marse Colonel done told me to 'ject de sheriff, ef he still 
wus prowUn' 'bout de grounds. Well, it am easier to tell 
some one else to do it — den do it yo' self. Dat sheriff 
man am some strong, yes, indeedy— and would be doin' 
some 'jectin' hisself, ah reckon. (Looking around) I'm 
sure glad he went ob his own accord. (Going toward 



24 The Gypsy 

house) But I won't tell de Col'nel dat. (Chuckling) No, 
indeedy. Ah'll tell him he raised an awful rumpus and 
so ah was compelled to i-un him clean off de place. (Chuck- 
ling) Yo' kain't fool dis yere old nigger — no, siree — not 
dis old nigger. (Low whistle heard off l. Starts) Hello, 
wonder what dat kin mean? (Whistle repeated. Looking 
off) Dere it goes again! (Peering off l.) Ef it ain't 
Marse Chase hurrying dis way — (Suddenly) — now he's 
stopped — and, hello! — ef it ain't one ob dem gypsy's 
talkin' to him. 

ENTER Madalyn, followed by Charlotte, from house. 

Madalyn. Ah, mother, I'm so happy now. 

Charlotte. And so am I, dear. To think the mar- 
riage will take place after all. (7'o Alec.) Oh, Alec, 
please see that Able feeds the horses. 

Alec, (still looking l.) . Yes, ma'm — yes, ma'm. 

[EXIT off R., continuing to glance off l. 

Madalyn (holding up hand). And look, mama, at this 
beautiful ring. 

Charlotte. The engagement ring. Kiss me, dear. 
(Kisses Madalyn) I hope you will always be supremely 
happy. 

Madalyn. Oh, I know I shall. (Charlotte wipes 
eyes with handkerchief.) 

Madalyn. You're crying, mother, dear. What is it? 

Charlotte. I dread to think of our coming separa- 
tion. 

ENTER Russell Ford, from house, stands in doorway. 

Madalyn. I know how hard it will be but then we 
will only remain North in the summer, and each winter 
return here with you. 

Charlotte (to Russell). And when is the marriage 
to take place? 

Russell (coming down). Before my return to New 
York next week. 



The Gypsy 25 

Charlotte (arm about Madalyn). I wish it were pos- 
sible for both of you to remain always with us. 

Madalyn. So do I, mother, dear, but we must con- 
sider Russell's prospects — his future. 

Charlotte. You are right, Madalyn. (To Russell) 
And I hope one day to see you at the head of your pro- 
fession. 

Russell. That's very kind of you. 

ENTER Jean Rossi, slowly from l., halting at gate. 

Rossi. Pardon, kind gentle-folk, but I am looking 
for the family of one Dexter— Colonel Dexter. 

Madalyn (up). The gypsy! Alec, must have ■ 

(Then endeavors to hide her face.) 

Charlotte. This is the Colonel's plantation. I am 
his wife. What can we do for you? 

Rossi (coming down c). If it is not too much trouble 
I would a word with him. 

Charlotte (to Russell). Would you mind asking 
the Colonel to step here? 

Russell. Not at all. [EXIT into house. 

Charlotte (to Rossi). Won't you be seated? 

Rossi (sits in chair l. of table). Thank you. 

ENTER Colonel Dexter /rom house. 

Colonel (looking around). Russell said 

Charlotte (referring to Rossi). A gentleman to see 
you, Henry. 

Colonel (looking at Rossi in surprise). To see me? 

Rossi (rising). Yes, good sir — to see you — and alone. 

Charlotte (to Madalyn). Come, dear, we'll leave 
your father to his business. 

[EXIT with Madalyn into house. 

Colonel (looking Rossi over). Your manner, to say 
the least, is quite unusual. Now, then, what is it? 

Rossi. You are Colonel Dexter, I take it? 
. Colonel. Dexter is my name, sir. 

Rossi. And I, sir, am but a humble wanderer on the 



26 The Gypsy 

face of this globe on which we live; a man, a poor — a 
lonely man, who once had happiness within his grasp, 
but foolishly let it shp away from him. 

Colonel. I am sorry for you but I don't really see 
how all this interests me. (Taking wallet from pocket) 
If you are looking for alms 

Rossi (distinctly). I am looking — for my daughter. 

Colonel (starts). Your daughter? 

Rossi (quietly). My long lost daughter. 

Colonel (with difficulty). Why — oh why, do you 
come here? 

Rossi. Because it is here I expect to find my little 
girl — my Helen. 

Colonel. Man! You must be mad! 

Rossi (rising). It is you who must be mad. Mad, to 
imagine you could longer carry out the deception. Oh, 
the records are all straight — and do not lie. The young 
lady in your household, passing as your daughter Mada- 
lyn, is, in truth, none other than the child for whom I 
have been seeking this many a day and year. (^4. sigh 
escapes the Colonel's lips) They told me in the village 
where I might find the chapel of Milton. 

Colonel (starts and repeats). The Chapel of Milton! 

Rossi (continuing). It was there, there! I found the 
proofs of my daughter's birth and my poor wife's decease. 
(Producing paper) I have brought the transcript with me. 

Colonel (glancing around). Good heavens, man, not 
so loud. The truth, I fear, would break my poor wife's 
heart. 

Rossi. Ah, then I speak the truth. 

Colonel (sinking on bench). I hardly know — alas, I 
can hardly think. 

Rossi. I admit that the circumstances of my separa- 
tion from my wife were not ones to commend me. I was 
a younger man then — much younger, and only awoke to 
a realization of my indiscretion when it was too late — 
when it was no longer possible to mend my wrong-doing. 
(Referring to paper. In mock sorrow) See, here are the 
transcripts — the proof of my unhappy wife's demise — 
the record of my poor child's birth. 



The Gypsy 27 

Colonel (nervously). Please, please, not so loud. I 
am truly at your mercy. What do you ask? (Then after 
an instant's pause) If any sum 

Rossi (rising, indignant). Sum? Sum? 

Colonel. If ten thousand dollars will purchase your 
silence. 

Rossi. Alas, that sum would buy most anything. 
(Then changing tone) But you forget a father's feelings. 
It can't buy love, no, no, it can't buy that. 

Colonel. Then name your own figure. I will pay 
most any price. 

Rossi. Money will not aid you. (Shaking head) The 
little one must be known to the world as my child. 

Colonel. Think, man — think. Is there no way by 
which we might 

Rossi (shaking head). I am sorry, but there is no 
other way. 

Colonel (sighs). Very well, the time has come for me 
to confess my awful secret. (At door of house) It will 
prove a blow to the Uttle one — it will break my poor wife's 
heart. [EXIT into house. 

ENTER Cal. Chase, eagerly, from h. 

Cal. (to Rossi). Well — how did it go? 

Rossi. Succeeded, of course. Oh, this is hard busi- 
ness. I am almost sorry for the part I played. It was 
heart-rending. The poor old chap has gone in to make 
known the astounding lie I told him. 

Cal. You're a sentimental fool. Don't delay. Make 
a firm stand and take the girl away. 

Rossi. Away? Where? 

Cal. Why, we went over all that. To my bungalow, 
of course, on the main road. (Takes card and writes) 
Here (Hands it to Rossi) is a card to my lodge-keeper. A 
carriage is waiting at the cross-road. (Pointing r.) So 
don't tarry. Do you understand? 

Rossi. Perfectly. (With sarcasm) You must be a 
graduate of the school of villainy. A fine business, 
indeed. 



28 The Gypsy 

C Ah. (irritated). You need not fear. I have instructed 
the sheriff as to his duty. He is with us. (Glancing to- 
ward house) S-h, the Colonel. Be on your guard. (Gets 
in shadow of house.) 

ENTER Colonel Dexter from house. 

Colonel (hrokenhj, to Rossi). Come, sir, come. I 
have broken the news to them. The first shock is over. 
Your daughter awaits you. 

Rossi. Very well, I follow you. (Starts toward house.) 

[EXIT Colonel into house. 

Cal. (touching Rossi on arm). Courage, man, courage. 
You must not fail at the eleventh hour. 

Rossi. Have no fear. I've already gone too far to 
turn back now. [EXIT into house. 

Cal. (looking after him, chuckles). So much for that. 
(Moving r. c.) The whole affair was managed more 
easily than I thought. What simpletons they are! 
What fools! 

ENTER Russell Ford from behind house. 

Russell (apparently looking for something). I'm sure 
I left it out here — (Comes face to face with Cal.) Cal. 
Chase! 

Cal. Russ. Ford! 

Russell (offering hand). Well, well, it seems good to 
see an old friend again. How are you, Cal? (Cal. an- 
grily pushing his hand away and crossing r.) Why, you 
don't seem glad to see me. What's happened — what's 
up? 

Cal. Surprised you asked. You know well enough. 
You didn't play fair. 

Russell. You're talking riddles, Cal. Make your- 
self plain. 

Cal. (close to him). I mean Madalyn — that's who I 
mean. You tried to cut me out. 

Russell. Cut you out? 

Cal. Yes — but I've beaten you at your own game. 



The Gypsy ag 

ENTER Colonel Dexter, who stands in doorway of 

house. 

Russell. You know as well as I do, that we were 
practically engaged before I left Virginia. I couldn't 
very well cut you out — when you never had a chance. 

Cal. Oh, is that so? Well, perhaps I've a better 
chance than you think. Perhaps you'll be surprised 
when you learn your marriage can't take place. 

Russell {staggered). Can't take place? {Turning on 
Cal. with uplifted hand) Why you 

Colonel {stepping between them. To Russell). Hold 
on, my boy — he's right. 

Russell {slowly lowering hand). Right, you say? 

Colonel {brokenly). What I have feared for years has 
come to pass. Madalyn's father has come to claim her. 

Russell {sinking on chair l. of table). Madalyn's 
father! 

ENTER Madalyn, from house, her eyes buried in her 
handkerchief, supported by Rossi, who, with arm 
about her waist, starts to lead her toward gate. 

Rossi. There, there, my child, it is all for the best. 

Colonel {wringing hands). This will be the death of 
my poor wife. 

Russell {looking at Rossi). Then you — you are 

Rossi {quietly). This dear child's father. (Russell 
sinks on chair, buries head on table.) 

Colonel {to Russell). He speaks the truth. I have 
thoroughly examined his proofs. {Then to Rossi) But 
you will let her remain with us for a few days. By then, 
I hope, my wife's unhappy condition will have changed 
for the better and 

Cal. {nudging Rossi. Whispers). No, no! 

Rossi {firmly to Colonel). I am sorry, but my feel- 
ings must also be considered. My daughter goes with me 
now. {Leading Madalyn to gateway.) 

Colonel {now l. with outstretched arms). Madalyn! 
Madalyn! 



30 The Gypsy 

Madalyn (with a sob). Father! Father! (Runs to 
him and buries her head on his shoulder.) 

Colonel. You will write to us, dear. You will let 
us know how 

Rossi (taking Madalyn bij arm and forcing her from 
Colonel). Come, my child, come! (Leads her back to 
gateway.) 

Colonel (brokenly). Good-bye; good-bye. 

Rossi (starts to lead Madalyn off r.). 

Russell (rising suddenly). I can't let her go that 
way! (Up to gateway. With arms outstretched) Mada- 
lyn! Madalyn! They shan't take you from me! (Madalyn 
looks back at him.) 

Cal. (at gateway — has intercepted Russell, triumphantly 
barring his way). 

(Colonel l., with tears in his eyes, as he watches Rossi 
lead Madalyn off r. Russell finally, in the most de- 
jected manner, lowers his hands, and leans against bench. 
Cal. at gate, looking after Rossi and then down at Russell, 
chuckles with satisfaction.) 

CURTAIN. 



ACT II. 

Scene. — A plain chamber in the Bungalow, with door 
at back r., and curtained window at back l. Doors 
also R. 2, and l. 1. Mission table and chairs r. c. 
Lighted lamp on table. Fireplace l. 3. Couch l. c. 
Other furniture. Screen in upper r. corner. Indian 
blankets and trophies to dress walls. Books, pen and 
ink on table. Carpet down. Time. — Evening. 

DISCOVERED — Madalyn, neatly dressed, seated at table, 
writing a letter. 

Madalyn (blotting sheet). There, that will do. I ought 
surely to receive a reply to that. They promised to write 
to me, and here five days have elapsed and not a line — 



THe Gypsy 31^ 

not even a word. Surely, they cannot have forgotten me 
so soon? No, there must be some other reason — some 
other explanation for their silence. Now, let me see, how 
does it read. (Takes up letter and reads to herself.) 

ENTER Gaston, slowly, door at back, with several pieces 
of firewood. Crosses to fireplace, intently looking back at 
Madalyn. 

Madalyn (looking up). Why, it's you, Gaston! 

Gaston (starting from his revery). Yes, Miss — yes. 
I've fetched the wood. (Places wood on floor beside fire- 
place) The night will be cold — there's a stiff breeze 
blowing. 

I Madalyn (placing letter in envelope and addressing it). 
Good, dear Gaston. Always looking after my welfare. 
(Sighs) I don't know how I should have gotten on 
without you. 

Gaston (his eyes lighting up, crossing to her). Do you 
really mean that, Miss? (Sits on floor close to her chair.) 

Madalyn (puzzled at his manner). Of course. Why? 

Gaston (sighs and draws away). Never mind, Miss — 
I had no right to think of it. 

Madalyn. I don't understand you, Gaston. 

Gaston (sorrowfully). It is well you do not. I was 
born a gypsy, and such I must remain to the end. 

Madalyn. My! how serious you've grown. Really, 
I've never seen you just hke this before. 

Gaston {with an attempt at hilarity). No? Well, I'm 
a victim of moods. (Laughing heartily) You see, the 
spell is broken now — I'm all laughter again. 

Madalyn. Dear, good Gaston. (Then glancing at 
letter) I wonder whether you'd go on an errand for me? 

Gaston (dreamily). I'd go to the end of the world 
for you. 

Madalyn (smilingly). Well, I wouldn't ask you to do 
that. In this case it's only a question of half a mile or 
so. I want this letter delivered (Looks around before 
continuing) to my old home — to my foster father — 
Colonel Dexter, 



32 The Gypsy 

Gaston (looking around cautiously). It's against or- 
ders. Your father would never forgive me. 

Madalyn. Oh, Gaston — and I never thought you 
afraid ! 

Gaston (snatching letter from her). And I am! No, 
no, it isn't that — not that — only — (Firmly) — Have no 
fear. I will deliver your detter. (Rising. Then starts) 
What was that? Didn't you hear a footfall? 

Madalyn (listens intently). I heard nothing. 

Gaston (alarmed, starts for door). If we have been 
overheard it will 

ENTER Cal. Chase, door at back, wearing riding boots 
and carrying a crop. 

Cal. (glancing from one to the other). Heigho. I find 
you two together again. (Sharply, to Madalyn) Didn't 
I say 

Madalyn (giving him a hard look). You have said far 
too much already. [EXIT r. 

Cal. (bitterly, looking after her). Still as haughty as 
ever, eh? I've been too easy with her. We've all been 
too easy. (Turning on Gaston, irho, on his knees, cowers 
near fireplace, as if greatly in fear) As for you — you 
whimpering dog— 

Gaston (piteously). Spare me, master — spare me! 

Cal. (angrily). I warned you never to speak to that 
girl, didn't I? Yet I find you sneaking about the place 
waiting for an opportunity to disobey my orders. But 
you won't break my rules again! Do you hear that? For 
I'm going to (With uplifted crop making as if to strike 
Gaston) give you 

ENTER Rossi, from door l., in time to seize crop as it 
is about to descend on Gaston's body. 

Rossi (coolly completing Cal's line). This crop, eh? 
Oh, thank you. 

Cal. (angrihj). So you're in on this little conspiracy, 
too, eh? 



The Gypsy 33 

Rossi. I'm in on more than I reckoned — in on too 
many for the welfare of my neck. However, I won't see 
this poor friend beaten or abused. 

Cal. (snapping fingers). Oh, pshaw! 

Rossi. Neither by you or any one — (then as Cal. 
shrugs shoulders, firmly) — do you understand — you or 
any one! (To Gaston) Rise, Gaston. 

Gaston. Thanks, master — thanks. (Rises and goes 
slowly over to door at back, and EXIT.) 

Cal. You're a fool, Rossi. 

Rossi. I am many things, but I can't help feehng 
grateful to one who risked his very life to save mine. 

Cal. (sitting on couch). He saved your life? 

Rossi (c.) Yes. Perhaps before this you have guessed 
that I am a gypsy by choice only. I had as good chances 
as you or any man, but love of wine and other luxuries 
robbed me of my opportunities — my wits — my all. I 
lived happily with my wife, a beautiful woman, until so- 
called friends led me from my fireside w their dens of ini- 
quity. Cards, and the rest that goes with them, brought 
me to poverty's door, and I sunk lower and lower until at 
last I came to lose even my identity. 

Cal. And this garb — this gypsy's dress? 

Rossi. Came to me quite by accident. In one of my 
awful drinking spells, I deserted my wife and wandered 
far afoot. I was dazed, in a stupor — out of my mind, I 
guess — and knew nothing of what happened until some 
days had passed, and I opened them only to gaze upon 
Gaston — the same poor, deformed Gaston — whom I pre- 
vented you from striking but a moment ago — who was 
hovering over me. 

Cal. I begin to get the drift of things. 

Rossi. I'd been found at the roadside, nearer death 
than anything, by a band of wandering gypsies, the leader 
of whom was Gaston's father. Instead of passing on and 
permitting me to die — they had succored me to life, and 
health. It was a week before I was strong enough to 
move. It was months before I came to know the truth. 
Believing it too late to return to my old home, for they 
must by then have thought me dead, I continued to live 



34 The Gypsy 

with my newly found friends and finally became one of 
them. Don't you realize — don't you see, now, what a 
debt I owe to Gaston? 

Cal. That's no reason why you should tread on my 
toes. 

Rossi (firmly). I shall always oppose any one who 
opposes Gaston. 

Cal. Then you'll come to grief quick enough. One 
word from me and you go to prison. 

Rossi. Prison? 

Cal. You forget Madalyn. She is not your daughter. 
You've committed a serious offense against the law in 
your httle kidnapping episode. Better remain on good 
terms with me and insure your future freedom. 

Rossi {looking at him sharply). You rascal. Then 
you would 

Cal. (calmly). My dear fellow, I would do anything to 
gain my end. (Knock on door, back.) 

Cal. (starts). Who can that be? 

Rossi. Gaston, likely. 

Cal. Hold on. He has a key. He wouldn't knock, 
would he? (Glancing around) I mustn't be seen here. 

Rossi. Don't be alarmed. It is Gaston with the 
wood. (Opens door.) 

ENTER Alec, carrying a basket. 

Cal. (gives a start). Of all persons! 

Alec, (espying him). Well, if it ain't Marse Chase. 
Lordy me, ah nevah 'spected to see yo' here. 

Cal. (to Rossi. Glancing uneasily toward door, r.). 
Make certain the girl doesn't hear. 

Rossi (over to door. Listens). All is quiet within. 
You need have no fear. 

Cal. (angrily to Alec.) What do you want anyway? 

Alec. Nuthin' much. I done lost mah way to Milton 
— dat's all. It got so turrible dark I ran plumb into the 
wrong road. When I see'd de light frum dis window I 
thought I'd ask mah way, but a couple o' youngsters tried 
to, frighten me off by sayin' dis place wuz haunted. 



Tfie Gypsy 35 

(Looking around, then to Cal.) Kain't be much haunted 
ef you am here, Marse Chase. 

Cal. {nervously). I would prefer you said nothing at 
the villa about having seen me here to-night. 
Alec. Lordy — am it as secret as dat? 
Cal. Yes — and I will pay you well if you can hold 
your tongue. (Offering him money) Here, take this and 
keep mum. 

Alec, (puzzled). I don't see nuthin' wrong hereabouts, 
(Referring to Rossi) 'cept p'haps dat gypsy. And he wuz 
at the villa the day Missey Madalyn went away, since 
when we ain't had nuthin' but cryin' and bellowin' at the 
house. 

Cal. (angrily). Stop your confounded prattle. I've a 
reason for not wanting the Colonel or his people to know 
you saw me here. Now, that isn't much to ask of an old 
friend, is it? 

Alec. No, it 'taint much and it 'taint little. 

Cal. (his arm about Alec's shoulder). Come, old chap, 
what do you say? Is it to be silence and the twenty 
dollar note, or what 

Alec, (scratching head). I don't fo' de world see why 
you want to pay all dat money jes' to keep me quiet, but 
since yo' are so all-fired anxious, why I reckon (Holding 
out hand) it am de twenty dollar note. (Then adding, 
after a pause) And no counterfeit, nuther. 

Cal,. (over-joyed). Good! Here you are. (Handing him 
money) Remember, silence is the word! 

Alec. Oh, you needn't bother 'bout dat a' tall. 
Good night, Marse Chase. (To Rossi) Good night, 
gypsy. [EXIT door at back. 

Rossi. Do you think he can be trusted? 

Cal. (nervously). It's a case where I've got to take a 
chance. And just when things were running so smoothly. 
We haven't been disturbed here since our arrival, owing 
to the fears of our neighbors, who believe the stories 
about the ghosts and all that rot. But now — now I'm 
afraid the secret's out. (Knock on door, back.) 

Rossi (starts). What, another? This is our busy 
night. 



36 The Gypsy 

Cal. Make sure this time. But hold on — I forgot I 
was expecting the sheriff. 

Rossi (puzzled). The sheriff? 

Cal. Yes. I told him to meet me here. (Rossi 
opens door cautiously.) 

ENTER Zeb. Hickman, door, back. 

- Zeb. Hello, folks. 

Cal. (anxiously). Any mail? 

Zeb, Nuthin' fo' you. 

C Ah. (dejectedly sinking into chair). No news! no news! 
God! 

Zeb. (producing a letter). But there was one for the 
gal 

Cal. (quickly up). For Madalyn? (Snatches it from 
him) From Colonel Dexter — I know the writing. Di- 
rected to General Delivery. Now, who — (Looking up) 
There's treachery here — mark my word for it. How 
should the Colonel know where to write unless — (Tears 
letter open and quickly scans it) It looks as if this might 
be in answer to a letter she sent him ! (T'o Rossi) Didn't 
I tell you 

Rossi. I had nothing to do with it — don't scowl at me! 

Cal. (changing tone). Well, we've been outwitted, 
that's all. 

Rossi. There must be some mistake. You don't 
suppose 

Cal. I'm not supposing anything. I know that your 
partner 

Rossi. Not Gaston? 

Cal. Yes, Gaston! He has played the traitor! 

Rossi. No, no, it can't be. I've known the lad too 
long. I would trust him with my life. 

Cal. Well, I'm not taking such chances. (Tearing up 
letter) At any rate she'll not receive the answer. This is 
the third I've destroyed. Better question Gaston, for 
there must be some explanation of this — (Then changing 
tone) — well, shall we say mystery? (Thc7i to Zeb.) And 
now, sheriff, a word with you. (Looking towards chair) 



The Gypsy 37 

Sit down. (Zeb. sits. To Rossi) You might also join 
us. This concerns us all. (Rossi, puzzled, sits) I have 
work for you. {Sits and looks around room before again 
speaking) As you doubtless know, sheriff, the bank is 
on the verge of failure. I'll be frank in saying that I've 
stolen an amount aggregating fifty thousand dollars from 
the funds on deposit during the past six months. 

Rossi (repeating). Fifty thousand dollars! 

Cal. Oh, it's a large sum, I admit — but this is not 
the time for regrets. The theft must be covered up in 
some manner or I am lost — for the bank examiners are 
due day after to-morrow. Now, what I propose is — 
{Glancing around before speaking) — a bank robbery! 

Rossi and Zeb. (together). A bank robbery! 

Cal. Yes, but one in name only. I have thought it 
over, and it is my plan that the bank be broken into 
to-morrow night, the safe rifled, papers scattered all 
about — but nothing taken. 

Zeb. Nothing? 

Cal. Don't you see? In the morning upon discov- 
ering the alleged robbery, we will claim the fifty thousand 
dollars — the exact amount I've borrowed — (Zeb. coughs 
pointedly. Cal. continues angrily) — well, stolen then, was 
taken by the thieves. In this way the bank examiners 
would be thrown completely off their guard, and I would 
be on my feet again. 

Zeb. And you depend 

Cal. On you and Rossi here, going thi-ough with the 
job. It's easy. Nothing to it; and I'll pay you each a 
thousand dollars. 

Rossi (rising). You'll have to count me out. 

Cal. (furious). Count you out? Impossible — I've 
counted you in. You've got to stick. 

Rossi (bringing hand heavily down on table). You 
heard what I said. You must count me out. 

Cal. You mean that you're going to throw me over? 

Rossi. I mean that I've done with deceit and treach- 
ery; done with the old Hfe. This last — the steahng of 
that poor girl — was the meanest trick of my whole 
miserable career. 



38 The Gypsy 

Cal. (with sarcasm). Growing sentimental, eh? 

Rossi. She really believes me to be her father, and 
has treated me as such. Can't you see, man — haven't 
you heart enough to realize that we've committed a great 
wrong, and one that can never be undone? 

Cal. You're a fool — and always preaching. (To 
Zeb.) Anyhow, sheriff — you stick? 

Zeb. You know me, boss. I'm with you in any game. 

Cal. (to Rossi. Fiercely). And so will you, Jean 
Rossi, or I'll tell them all 

Rossi (rising). The truth? About the kidnapping? 

Cal. (with a wicked smile). Everything! It means a 
long term, old man. Better stick to your real friends. 
The girl is nothing to you. 

Rossi (sinking into chair. Repeating slowly). Nothing 
to me? I wish I really thought so. There's something 
about Madalyn — (Looking up) — Why, do you know, I 
sometimes think 

Cal. (disgustedly). Oh, you've told me that fairy tale 
a hundred different times. It's sickening. You're a fool. 

Rossi (with a sigh). 1 suppose I am. But she does so 
resemble my poor dead wife — my Catharine. (Sobs, 
resting his head on hands on table.) 

Cal. (aside to Zeb.). The fellow's growing weak. It's 
time we got rid of" him. He'll give the whole snap away 
sooner or later. Meet me at the tavern. I may want to 
strike a blow this very night. 

Zeb. All right, boss — I'm on. 

Cal. (to Rossi. Patting him on shoulder). There, 
there, old man. Don't let the things get on your nerves. 
Life's too short. Brace up, follow my example — and 
take things as they come. I've a bottle in one of my 
saddle bags outside that'll warm the cockles of your 
heart. 

Rossi (wipes eyes on sleeve and slowly rises). I'm an 
old woman — weeping that way. But I jes' can't help 
giving away sometimes. It catches me in the throat. 
(Then changing tone) Are you leaving us? 

Cal. Yes, I go to town. Won't see you again for the 
rest of the week unless you 



The Gypsy 39 

Rossi (shaking head). Don't — please don't ask me to 
join you in the bank transaction. I want to live right 
from now on. I want to start anew. 

Cal. {patting Zeb. on shoulder). Did you ever see any- 
thing funnier, Zeb.? Did you ever hear the Uke? (Gives 
a loud laugh.) [EXIT Cal. and Zeb. at back, laughing. 

Rossi (going up and looking off after them). Yes, 
laugh — laugh your heartiest. But you can never realize 
what I have gone through the past five days — you will 
never know the truth. [EXIT slowly after them. 

ENTER Madalyn from r. 

Madalyn (looks about. Calls). Oh, dad, dad! (Pauses) 
1 wonder where he could have gotten to? I thought I 
heard his voice. (Goes to door at back) Locked! Always 
locked! I can't understand it all. The going's on in 
this place have nearly robbed me of my reason. If it 
wasn't for dad — he's so kind and gentle — I don't know 
what I'd do. (Starts) What was that? (Goes to win- 
dow, draws back) Some one's at the window. Who can 
it be? (Starts for door "R. Calling) Dad! Dad! 

ENTER Gaston through window. 

Madalyn (turning and starting). You — Gaston! 

Gaston (glancing mysteriously about). Don't be 
alarmed. 

Madalyn. My, but you frightened me! 

Gaston. There was no other way. The master and 
his visitors would have passed us on the gravel path 

Madalyn. Us? Then you are not alone? 

Gaston. I delivered your letter and brought a sur- 
prise for you. 

Madalyn. A surprise? 

Gaston. Behold! (Drawing curtains of window aside, 
presents Russell Ford to view.) 

Russell (with arms outstretched). Madalyn! 

Madalyn (staggered). Do my eyes deceive me? 

Russell. Aren't you glad to see me? 



40 The Gypsy 

Madalyn. Yes, yes, but it was so sudden. (Going to 
him) The joy is overwhelming. 

Russell (tossing cap carelessly on table — taking her in 
his arms). It seems eternity since last we were together. 

Gaston (loho has peered through curtains). We must be 
careful. The master is likely to return at any moment. 

Russell (to Madalyn). How have you fared? How 
have you gotten on in your new surroundings? 

Madalyn. My father has been most kind to me. I 
could want for nothing save 

Russell (anxiously). Save what? 

Madalyn. Well, perhaps I shouldn't complain — but 
I've been allowed no freedom since leaving the villa. 

Russell (looking around). Gaston told me of the 
whole wretched business. 

Madalyn. I am always locked in when father goes 
away — and am never permitted out of his sight when he 
is home. 

Russell. Strange — very strange. What can be the 
reason for it? 

Madalyn. I don't know. That's why I sent the 
letter by Gaston. 

Russell. And you don't know how glad I was to 
receive it. We all wondered at your silence. 

Madalyn. Why, I've written over a dozen letters. 

Russell. And we've received never a one. 

Madalyn (to Gaston). Gaston knows. He can tell 
you. Cal. Chase was to dehver them. 

Russell (starts). Cal. Chase? Why, he even denied 
knowing your whereabouts. 

Madalyn. And he's been here every day — very fre- 
quently, several times a day. 

Russell. Singular, indeed. What could have been 
his motive? (Then, after a pause, looking at Madalyn) 
Unless 

Gaston (suddenly drawing away from curtains). S-h. 
Make haste! The master returns. He will never for- 
give my treachery should he find you here. 

Madalyn. Gaston is right. We must not endanger 
his welfare. 



The Gypsy 41 

Russell (/o Madalyn). Good-bye, Madalyn — until 
we meet again. 

Gaston {nervously). Hurry, hurry! 

Madalyn. Good-bye, good-bye. {Loud knock on door, 
hack.) 

Gaston {io Russell). Quick! The curtains! The 
curtains! (Russell hurriedly hides behind the curtains; 
Gaston cautiously up to door, back. Madalyn, composing 
herself, goes to door. Knock repeated.) 

Madalyn {aloud). Who is it? 

Rossi {without). It is I, your father. 

Madalyn. The door is locked from without. 

Rossi {without). Ah, yes, you are right, my child. 
How forgetful of me. {Opens door) I'm becoming an 
old fogey in my latter days. {As Rossi enters, Gaston 
crouches close to door and noiselessly exits as door closes 
behind him, without being seen.) 

Rossi {his hands on Madalyn's shoidders). Ah, Mada- 
lyn, you ane a good girl. {Sighs) And your old father is 
a — {With toss of head) — Well, never mind what he is. 

Madalyn. What ails you, dad, you always look at 
me so strangely? Are you ill? 

Rossi {slowly). No, my child, not exactly. Though 
I have got a bit of a headache. 

Madalyn, A headache? Poor, dear dad. {Drawing 
him to chair l. of table) Sit down and let me try to help you . 

Rossi {feebly protesting) . I'll be myself in a few mo- 
ments. Perhaps the refreshing night air will cool my 
fevered brow. Yes — a good idea. {Starts toward win- 
dow) There's a stiff breeze from this window. {Seizes 
end of curtain and is about to draw it aside.) 

Madalyn {quickly up, staying his hand). No, no, dad 
— I've a better way. (Rossi looks into her face intently 
for an instant. Holding picture — sloivly repeats). A 
better way. {Then, after a pause, sloivly leads him to chair 
and gently pushes him in seat) Don't you remember? I 
cured your headache last evening by merely rubbing 
your forehead with the tips of my fingers? 

Rossi. You're right, my dear. My forgetting so soon 
was quite unpardonable. 



42 The Gypsy 

Madalyn. Now, just sit still and don't move. That's 
it. (Begins to rub hands slowly over his forehead, for an 
instant, each time covering his eyes, and nervously glancing 
toward curtains. Russell suddenly out from behind cur- 
tains and cautiously over to door, back. Continuing to rub 
Rossi's brow). Well, dad, how goes the headache. 

Rossi (slowly). Wonderful forethought on your part, 
my dear. It's gradually disappearing. (Very slowly) 

Seems to be going — going (Russell has now opened 

door and quickly EXIT at back.) 

Madalyn (as door closes upon him. Gasps). Gone! 

Rossi (jubilantly). Yes, my dear, gone! Gone! How 
did you guess it? How did you know? 

Madalyn (with forced laugh). Intuition, my dear dad, 
(Patting his cheek) — intuition. 

Rossi. A wonderful thing — that intuition. And now 
it's time we closed up shop. (Rises) I know you're 
tired, my dear, and so am I. (Going to door at back) 
Hello, I forgot to lock the door. First time I overlooked 
it. (To Madalyn) You get my lamp. It's been a long 
day, my dear — the longest of the year. (Locks door.) 

Madalyn (at door r.). It has been long, dad, hasn't 
it? [EXIT R. 

Rossi. Long, long indeed. And many things have 
happened. (Over to window) What was she up to when 
I entered the room? Surely I heard voices and the hur- 
rying of feet as I approached. (Drawing curtains aside. 
Looks out) And a ladder lying on the ground below, 
which evidently tumbled over but a while ago. (Chuck- 
ling) She didn't want me to draw the curtains. (Slowly 
nods head and comes down) I wonder why — why? 
(Espying Russell's cap on table) Ah, now I know. 
(Picking up cap and looking at it) The young surveyor's 
cap. I guessed right from the start. They love each 
other. {Hiding cap under table) And he's been here to 
see her. I'm glad he got away safely. God knows I 
don't want to interfere in their love-making. And the 
course of true love will run smooth from now on, if I have 
any say. Cal. Chase shan't hinder them — (Sits h. of 
table) — no, not while I live! 



The Gypsy 43 



ENTER Madalyn, /rom r., carrying a lamp. 

Rossi (slowly). Madalyn, I want to speak to you. 

Madalyn (places lamp on table and comes around l. of 
Rossi, kneeling at his side). Yes, dad. 

Rossi (after a pause). What would you say, my dear, 
if some one was to tell you I am not the good man you 
suppose me? 

Madalyn. I would say they told a falsehood — an 
untruth. 

Rossi. Nothing could shake your faith in me? 

Madalyn. Oh, dad, why do you talk that way? I 
wouldn't beheve anything but what you yourself might 
tell me. 

Rossi (his arm about her shoulder). I'm thankful for 
that, dear — thankful for that. And now, good-night. 
(Then espying locket about her neck) But, stay, — I've 
never seen this before? Where did you get it? 

Madalyn (referring to locket). This locket? Why, the 
Colonel gave me that the day you came for me at the 
villa. He told me my mother had worn it about her 
neck, the day she died. (Opening locket) See, it con- 
tains her portrait. 

Rossi (starts. Hardly audible). Catharine! My God! 

Madalyn (referring to locket). And here is your's. 
(Rossi, starts again) Your's — when you were a younger 
man. (Looking from Rossi to locket) And yet you 
haven't changed a great deal, have you, dad? 

Rossi (presses locket to lips. Brokenly). Catharine, 
my wife, my poor wife. 

Madalyn. I ought to have shown it to you before 
but I thought you 

Rossi (not heeding her). And I never knew — I never 
really suspected. (Rising) I'll return this to you in the 
morning, dear. (Leading her to door, r.) Good night, 
my child, (Kissing her) — good night. 

Madalyn. Good night, dad — good night. [EXIT r. 

Rossi (looks after her an instant). My own child — my 
little Helen, and I might never have known, (Looks in- 



44 The Gypsy 

tently at locket) but for this. (Sadh/ shakes head) No 
wonder the Colonel didn't long hesitate in turning her 
over to me. This portrait must have been convincing 
proof to him. {Presses locket to lips) Poor, poor Catha- 
rine. Could I but undo the past — but bring you back to 
life, how happy I would be. {Knock on door, back. 
Starts) Who can that be? And at this hour? {Over 
to door) Who is it? 

Gaston {without. In whispers). It is I, master — 
iGaston. 

Rossi. Why, I thought you'd gone to bed. {Opening 
door. ENTER Gaston) What has happened? Why 
are you so nervous? 

Gaston {hreathlessl ij) . We are in danger. 

Rossi. Danger? 

Gaston. From the sheriff and his men. 

Rossi {locking door). Go on, go on, what is it? 

Gaston. I was at the rear of the bungalow when, in 
the moonlight I figured I saw the shadows of two men. 
I crept near them and hid in the thicket. I recognized 
their voices. It was Cal. Chase and the sheriff. 

Rossi. Why, I thought they'd driven to town. 

Gaston. That was part of their ruse. I couldn't 
learn their motive, but they apparently fear you are no 
longer to be trusted, so what do you suppose? 

Rossi. I can't imagine. 

Gaston. They've decided to wait until the house is 
dark; break in and steal the girl away. 

Rossi {aroused). Madalyn, my girl — my daughter? 
{Then to Gaston) For you know — she really is my 
daughter. 

Gaston {looking at him in amazement). Really is your 
daughter? 

Rossi. Yes. I only learned the truth to-night — 
though I had suspected something of the sort since that 
fateful day that brought me to the villa. {Then changing 
subject) We have no time to lose. Go on with your 
story. 

Gaston. Then I heard Cal. say, "We must not stop 
at anything — even to killing her vagabond father." 



The Gypsy 45 

Rossi. Enough! The sooner we come to know our 
fate the better. You will stand by me Gaston, to the 
end. {Offers hand.) 

Gaston. Have I ever failed you, master? {Warmly 
grasping his hand) To the end! 

Rossi. Good. Put out that light. (Gaston puts 
out light of lamp and gets so, curtain of window conceals him 
against the rear wall) Now draw into the shadows and 
leave everything to me. {Gets behind screen.) 

{The stage is dark, save for the blue light without, which 
streams through the parted curtains. A deadly silence for 
a moment, then Cal. Chase observed without, peering 
through window. Breaking of glass heard, then curtains 
are drawn apart and Cal. ENTERS room. Goes to door 
R. and listens, then returns to window and gives a long, 
warning whistle. Then crosses to door h. and listens.) 

ENTER Zeb. Hickman through window, and going r. 
stubs toe against chair. Gives a howl of pain, and jumps 
up and down in great anguish. 

Cal. Keep quiet, you fool. You'll wake the house- 
hold. {Then, when quiet is restored) There's her room. 
I'll keep guard in this room. You get her here as quietly 
as possible, and once outside, it will be an easy thing to 
force her into the closed carriage. Do you understand? 

Zeb. Perfectly. {Goes to door r. Gaston now gets 
behind curtains in window.) 

Cal. If any one interferes in the performance of my 
task, well — you know what it means. Now hurry. 

EXIT Zeb. r. 

Cal. {glances toward window. Bitterly). Now, Jean 
Rossi, I guess I'm through with you. {Nervously) I do 
hope he'll hurry. 

Zeb. {off R.). I've got you at last! 

Madalyn {off R.). Let me go — let me go. Help, dad 
— help! {Sounds of a scuffic folUrw.) 

Cal. {excitedly). Hurry, sheriff! Hurry! {Quickly 
lights lamp.) 



46 The Gypsy 

Zeb. {off R.). Come on, come on, resistance will only 
make it harder for you. 
Madalyn {off R., pleadingly). Please — please let me 

go- 

Cal. {anxiously). Hurry — hurry. 

Zeb. {roughly pushes Madalyn on from r. Madalyn's 
hands are secured at hack, and she has a handkerchief tied 
about her mouth). There she is! 

Cal. {triumphantly). At last! At last! {Seizing her 
about waist) Now you'll come with me. 

Rossi {bobbing from behind screen, revolver in hand). 
Not just yet, my friend! 

Cal. {staggered). Jean Rossi! 

Rossi {out from behind screen and opening door at hack). 
Jean Rossi — at your service. {Then to Madalyn) Come, 
Madalyn — come ! 

Madalyn {quickly to door, back, Rossi removes hand- 
kerchief from her mouth and she EXITS, while Rossi still 
holds them off until door closes and he, too, makes escape.) 

Cal. {infuriated, drawing revolver. To sheriff). Quick, 
sheriff — the window, we must shoot to kill! (Zeb. and 
Cal. make a dash for the window.) 

Gaston {dashing curtains aside and leveling revolver, 
holds them at bay). Yes — shoot to kill! 

Zeb. and Cal. {are aghast). 

CURTAIN. 
ACT III. 



Scene. — Wood Drop at Back. Tree wings at either side. 
A small pile of wood r. c, under which a red electric 
bulb or red lamp. Green baize down. Grass mats 
strewn about. Time. — Early morning. 

DISCOVERED. — Madalyn lying on a small bundle of 
straw, R. of fire, covered by a shawl or blanket, and 
Gaston seated on a tree stump, l. of fire. He is whit- 
tling a stick and drumming a tune. 



The Gypsy *47 

Gaston {after a moment). Poor girl. Tired out with 
the excitement of the night she sleeps. (Sighs) Ah, 
what would I not give to live my life over again. I never 
dreamt that I, Gaston, the vagabond, would fall in love. 
But she is not for me. She must never know. A wan- 
derer I was born — and a wanderer I must die. But they 
shan't harm her. No, not while I live. (Tosses stick 
aside and glances about him) I thought I heard a sound. 

Rossi (well off r.). Hello there — hello. 

Gaston (up). Yes, I was sure of it. (At hack, looking 
offn. Waves hat. Aloud) Hello! (Cowing' down) It's 
the master — the master, at last! 

ENTER Jean Rossi from r. 

Gaston (finger to lips — referring to Madalyn). S-h. 

Rossi (lowering voice). Ah, she still sleeps. (Arm 
about Gaston) Gaston, my boy — I've struck luck. 

Gaston. Where have you been all the night? 

Rossi. First, I walked to the village 

Gaston (surprised). Why, that's 

Rossi. Oh, yes — a good, long walk. I know — for I 
speak from experience. I thought to arrange for a room 
for Madalyn but the hotels are all filled with visitors for 
the fair to-morrow. And I found a great many, who, 
like myself, had had no sleep for the night. 

Gaston. Indeed? 

Rossi (confidentially). Our friend Chase is drawing 
near the end of his rope — or all signs fail. Hundreds of 
depositors were standing in line awaiting the opening of 
the bank this morning. 

Gaston. Which means? 

Rossi. That he is not far from the end. (Looking at 
Madalyn, who has now awakened) Ah, Madalyn — 
awake? I fancy your improvised couch did not 

Madalyn. No apologies, father. I don't know when 
I rested better. The cool air, the rustling of the leaves, 
the twittering of the birds were all so new to me. I never 
before realized the grandeur of it all; I never imagined — ■ 

Rossi (laughing). What a gypsy's Ufa was like. (Help- 



48 The Gypsy 

ing her up) Well, you'll put up with no more of it. I've 
arranged for your breakfast. (Enthusiasticalh/) Fruit, 
porridge, eggs, a bumper of fresh milk and a mountain of 
griddle cakes — so high. (Illustrates.) 

Gaston (surprised). Master, are you dreaming? 

Rossi. Far from it, Gaston. I've arranged it all at 
the farm house but a stone's throw away. (Pointing r.) 
There! See! (To Madalyn) You are to go there, dear, 
and breakfast. The hostess — a fine, motherly lady — 
awaits you. 

Madalyn (throwing shawl over shoulders). You're so 
considerate, father. 

Rossi. Now, don't linger. The cakes will grow cold 
with waiting — and we must be starting on our way. 

Madalyn. And you — and Gaston? 

Rossi. I've had my fill already. Gaston's is ar- 
ranged for when you return. Now, don't be long. 

Madalyn. I won't — I won't. EXIT r. 

Rossi (to Gaston, when they are alone). I had a reason 
for not wanting you to go. I've not breakfasted. I only 
said so, that we might have a word together. You, 
Gaston, must help me. Help me, perhaps, for the last time. 

Gaston (anxiously). In what way, kind master? 
Only tell me — in what way? 

Rossi. You know the Colonel's villa, at Milton? 

Gaston. Yes — at the end of this road. (Poiyits l.) 

Rossi. I want you to hurry there; beg an audience 
on any pretext — and tell him what occurred last night. 

Gaston. About the attack at the bungalow? • 

Rossi. Yes, but also about Madalyn — about the 
locket — (Brokenly) — about my discovery that she is 

Gaston. Your own daughter. Yes, yes, I understand. 

Rossi. I fought it all out last night in the hills, there. 
(Pointing r. Then placing hand on Gaston's shoulder) 
Things can't go on Uke this. We're robbing the child of 
her destiny. She's entitled to better than we can ever 
offer her. She was happy in the Colonel's household. 
She will continue to be happy there. 

Gaston (ivith difficulty). You're — you're going to re- 
turn Madalyn to them? 



The Gypsy 49 

Rossi. Isn't it all for the best? Tell them the whole 
story — tell them everything, even to why we took her 
away that day. Conceal nothing, and ask the Colonel 
to come here. When he knows the truth he will be 
wilUng to forgive us, perhaps, for the miserable part we 
played. 

Gaston. I will do your bidding, master. And then? 

Rossi (looking at him). I don't understand, Gaston. 

Gaston (humbly). Then — when she is finally lost to 
us 

Rossi. My dear Gaston, one would almost think the 
parting as hard for you as for me. 

Gaston (brokenly). It is, kind master — it is; for I 
love your daughter. 

Rossi (surprised). You love Madalyn? 

Gaston (udth bowed head). I have loved her ever since 
that day when first we met. (On knees) It was unpar- 
donable, master — but you will forgive my weakness, I 
know. 

Rossi. Rise, Gaston — rise. There is nothing to for- 
give. But that is only another reason why we must part 
from Madalyn. She was never meant for you, Gaston — • 
never for you. We will leave her to her life and continue 
on ours. In a month we will have reached new climes 
and have forgotten all about this region and its people. 

Gaston (warmly). I will never, never forget. 

Rossi (firmly). You must — you must! And now, 
Gaston — do my bidding. (Pointing l.) Go! 

Gaston. Yes, master. (Slowly up l., turning) If I 
succeed in bringing the Colonel with me, I will give the 
warning signal. [EXIT l. 

Rossi (looking after him. Slowly shakes head.) Poor, 
poor fellow. In love, and with my Madalyn. I pity 
you, Gaston — but you should realize the hopelessness of 
your cause. (Sighs) I'm glad I decided as I did before 
knowing the truth. He might have misconstrued it. 
(Turning to r.) Hello, as I live — someone's in the 
bushes. Yes, I'm sure of it. An eavesdropper! (Hur- 
riedly off R., immediately returning, leading Alec by the 
ear) I thought so — an eavesdropper! 



50 The Gypsy 

Alec, (his knees quaking). No, indeedy, marse. I 
was skeered, dat's all — plumb skeered. 

Rossi. That does not explain anything. Why are 
you here? Why are you 

Alec, (in agony). Jes' let go mah ear, boss, and I tells 
yo' everything. 

Rossi (releasing him). Well, sir — go on — but remem- 
ber — everything ! 

Alec. I've been hunting fo' you folks since last night. 

Rossi (folding arms and looking at him). Oh, that's it, 
eh? 

Alec . (shivering) . Gospel truth, marse — only don't look 
at me dat way. It wuz all de Colonel's 'structions arter I 
cum back frum de bungelaloo — or whatever you calls it. 

Rossi. Ah, then you told him, eh? 

Alec, (his knees quaking). I couldn't jes' help it. Cause 
when I found dere warn't no ghosts or spirits in dat house, 
other'n yo' and Marse Chase — my tongue wouldn't keep 
still. I couldn't keep de secret. 

Rossi. You told the Colonel. 

Alec. I done told de Colonel — yes, sir, and he sezs — 
sezs he — "yo go right back and see whether you kin find 
the missey dar." Well, I scurried back — but found de 
place empty — empty as a hencoop after — well, nevah 
mind, after what. Den I did git scared thinkin' 'bout 
dem ghosts and things, and I was on my way back home, 
when you all grabbed me by the ear and all neah jerked 
mah head off. Dat's all der's to it — dat's all, sho' as I 
live. 

Rossi (sternly). No, it isn't all. The Colonel gave you 
a letter 

Alec, (his knees quaking). Fortune tellin' agin! Tain't 
no use tryin' to keep things from you. You sho' kin read 
dem pasts, presents and futures. Das right, he gave me 
a letter. (Producing it) Here it am. 

Rossi (snatching letter from him). Now — go! Go as 
fast as your legs will carry you. 

Alec, (taking long strides to l.). Don't yo' worry — I'll 
go, all right. 

Rossi. And tell the Colonel just what happened. 



The Gypsy 51 

Alec, (at l.). Yo' kin bet I will. I'll tell him every- 
thing — and more, too. - [EXIT quickly, h. 

Rossi. Now the Colonel will surely come — whether 
he beheves Gaston's story or not. (Looks at envelope) 
Addressed to Madalyn. How the old fellow and his wife 
must love my child. (Sighs) Ah, it would be cruelty to 
take her away from them all. (Sits on stump.) 

It is now daylight. 

ENTER Madalyn slowly from r., coming down, places 
hand on Rossi's shoulder. 

Rossi (soliloquizing). I should have hked to have kept 
her to myself, to have made her love me — and me alone, 
but — (Starts) Why, my dear child, you couldn't have 
eaten a great deal in that time. 

Madalyn (wearily). No, I had no appetite — I wasn't 
hungry. 

Rossi (taking her hands). What ails you, dear? 

Madalyn (kneels beside him). Oh, I hardly know. 

Rossi. You wish for something, my dear. I can read 
it in your thoughts. 

Madalyn. I have you, father. I could ask for noth- 
ing more. 

Rossi. You say so, because you think I would refuse 
it; because you think I have not the courage to look on 
and see that you love them better than me. 

Madalyn. I don't understand, father. 

Rossi. The Colonel and his wife. Supposing I would 
allow you to see them again. 

Madalyn (joyfully). The Colonel — my mother! 

Rossi. It would make a change in you, my dear, 
wouldn't it? 

Madalyn. I should be supremely happy. (Then ob- 
serving that Rossi's head is buried in his arm) Why, dad, 
you are weeping. What have I done — what have I said 
to bring those tears? (Gaston off l. gives a long whistle.) 

Rossi (drying eyes). Gaston! (Rises) The warning 
whistle! (Going up to back) He is bringing the Colonel 
with him! 



52 The Gypsy 

Madal^n (starting). The Colonel? He does not know 
I am here. 

Rossi. He knows far more, my dear, than you imagine. 
He knows the truth! 

ENTER Gaston leading Colonel Dexter, and 
Charlotte, his wife. 

Charlotte (with arms outstretched). Madalyn, my 
child! 

Madalyn (in her arms). Mother — you here? Oh, to 
see you once again! (They both go up. Gaston down 
l., intently watching Madalyn.) 

Colonel (shaking hands with Rossi). You don't 
know what joy was ours when Gaston came to tell your 
hiding place. 

Rossi (looking back at Madalyn, before speaking. Then, 
in low tone). And Gaston has told you all? 

Colonel. Everything. 

Rossi (with bowed head). What must you think of me? 
How can I lift my head again? (Brokenly) Oh, wretched 
being that I am. (Sinks on stump.) 

Colonel (patting him on shoulder). Charlotte and I 
both pity you. You did wrong that never to be forgotten 
day — but we forgive you. 

Rossi (clasping Colonel's hand and pressing it to his 
lips). God bless you for those words. It is more than 
I deserve. 

Colonel. And so you will leave Madalyn with us. 
But what have you decided for yourself? 

Rossi. I chose my life when I deserted my poor wife 
these many years ago. I have no alternative now — I 
must continue on my way. 

Colonel. No, no, you must remain with us. 

Rossi (looking up). With you? 

Colonel. With Madalyn — at the villa — at our home. 

Rossi (with smile). If only it were possible. 

Colonel. Nothing is impossible. You are expe- 
rienced in gardening — and you would find a great deal 
to occupy your time. 



The Gypsy 53 

Rossi. It is very kind of you, sir. It is more than I 
have a right to expect. 

Colonel. Then you accept our offer. You will re- 
main with us? 

Rossi. Gladly. (Then suddenly espying Gaston) But 
what of him — what of poor Gaston? 

Colonel (stroking mustache). H'm, yes — that is so. 
What is to become of him? 

Rossi. It would hardly do, I suppose, for you to grant 
him a place on your estate. 

Colonel. He is a gypsy and, of course 

Rossi. I understand your position. Colonel Dexter. 
There is no place for Gaston in this world, save on the 
highway. A wanderer from the cradle — a wanderer to 
the grave! (up.) I have reconsidered. So long as Gas- 
ton lives, I must remain with him. 

Colonel (surprised). You don't mean you refuse my 
offer? 

Rossi. My place is at his side. Don't ask me to 
desert the friend who saved me from destruction. Don't 
tempt me to do that. Colonel Dexter. My mind is quite 
made up. I can't accept your offer. 

Colonel. I am sorry, deeply sorry. But Madalyn — ? 

Rossi. Madalyn goes back with j^ou. 

Colonel (offering hand). I won't forget your sacrifice. 

Rossi (warmly shaking his hand). Nor I your gener- 
osity. 

Gaston (suddenly, looking l.). Be careful, master! Be 
careful! The enemy! (Quickly moves r.) 

Rossi (all action). Why, what ? 

ENTER Cal. Chase, breathlessly from h. He is cov- 
ered with dust. 

Cal. Ah, so I find you all together. I suspected as 
much. Well, it is better so. 

Colonel (sharply to Cal.). We know you, sir, at last 
we know you for what you are. 

Cal. (taken aback) . So, that's it, eh? Well (Pointing 
at Rossi) then know him! 



54 The Gypsy 

Colonel. I imagine we know him better than you do. 
(Charlotte and Madalyn now come down l.) 

Cal. So, that's how it is! 

Colonel. He has told us everything. 

Cal. (surprised). Even to the kidnapping, eh? 

Colonel. Even to ijour part in the scheme. 

Cal. My part? I had no hand in this dirty work. 
(Defiantly) The fellow lies! 

Gaston (r.). He speaks the truth! 

Cal. So you are in on the conspiracy, too? It has 
truthfully been said that "birds of a feather " 

Rossi (angrily). You infer that I am a (Makes as 

if to attack Cal.) 

Colonel (stepping between them. To Rossi). There, 
there, calm yourself. We have no need to answer him. 

Cal. (infuriated). Well, you will have need, by night- 
fall. You'll have a lot to answer for. My friend, the 
sheriff, will do my bidding, and for some time both you 
vagabonds will languish in the county jail. (Starts to go l.) 

ENTER Alec, breathlessly, from l. 

Alec. Marse Colonel — Marse Colonel — did you all 
hear de news? 

Colonel (anxiously). No, no — what is it? 

Alec. We jes' got word on the telephone. The Chase 
Bank am plumb busted. 

Cal. (coming down — starts). What's that? 

Alec, (excitedly). Hundreds ob people drew their 
money out dis mornin' — — 

Charlotte (anxiously to Colonel). Henry, Henry! 
What about your funds? 

Colonel. Anticipating just such a calamity, I fortu- 
nately, withdrew every dollar I had on deposit yesterday. 

Cal. (bitterly). And by so doing — started the run! 

Alec, (excitedly). The bank's sho' gwine to the wall. 
(To Cal.) And the mayor telephoned to say a posse 
wuz a lookin' fo' you. 

Cal. (despondently). So that's it, eh? (Desperately) 
What I have feared has come at last — at last! I'm 



The Gypsy 55 

ruined! Stone broke! Luckily the sheriff is with me. 
I need not fear the fury of the mob. 

ENTER Zeb. Hickman from l., followed by Russell 
Ford. Both have been riding horses and are covered 
with du^. 

Russell (pointing at Cal.) There he is, sheriff. 

Cal. (staggered). Why, what's up? What does this 
mean? 

Zeb. (seizing Cm,, bp shoulder). I'm sorry, old man, but 
you're under arrest. 

Cal. (surprised). Under arrest? Me? 

Zeb. Yep — for making away with the funds of the 
bank. 

Cal. Why, I thought you were with me, Zeb.? 

Zeb. My dear Cal. — I'm always with them as is on top. 

Cal. (bitterly). And I looked upon you as my friend. 

Zeb. Friendship don't go in love or politics, and I'm 
in politics. I'm lookin' out fer number one this time, 
and this thing will mean my re-election 

Cal. And my finish, I suppose. 

Zeb. (taking pair of handcuffs from pocket and dangling 
before Cal's eyes). Come on, now, old man, hold out 
your hands. 

Cal. (coolly). All right, sheriff. I see I've got to go. 
(Then suddenly drawing revolver from hip pocket) But I 
won't go alone for, Jean Rossi, I take you with me. 
(Levels revolver at Rossi, who stands immovable.) 

Gaston (same instant, quickly steps in front of Rossi to 
shield him). No, no, you must not! You must not! 
(Cal. fires shot and Gaston, with a moan, falls dead. Zeb. 
seizes revolver and forces it from Cal. Rossi kneels beside 
Gaston and quickly feels of his heart.) 

Colonel (after a pause. Anxiously). How is he, 
Rossi? 

Rossi (pauses effectively, then brokenly). He's gone on 
his way, Colonel — gone on his way — alone! 

CURTAIN, 



THE EAST SIDERS 

A Comedy Drama in Three Acts, by ANTHONY E. WILLS 

PRICE, 25 CENTS 

CHARACTERS 

Emil Schultz, an old tailor Old German 

Paul Albers, in his employ Character Heavy 

James Keegan, a typical New Yorker Comedy 

"Robert Perry, an actor Lead 

Daniel Jarvis, a prosperous merchant Character old man 

Clarence Frothingham, a dry-goods clerk Dude 

Officer McNally, a policeman Comedy 

Otto Werner, a street musician German comedy 

Mrs. Schultz, the tailor's wife Old lady comedy 

Edna Schultz, her daughter Lead 

Lieutenant Brockway, a Salvation lassie Straight 

Dolly Hammond, who lives upstairs Soubrette 

One Interior Stage-setting. — Time, 2 Hours. 

SYNOPSIS OF INCIDENTS 

Act I. — New Year's Eve. Paul Albers arrives, expecting to marry 
Edna. Mr. Jarvis hears some plain truths. The mistake of Clarence. The 
mortgage. The marriage of Edna and Perry announced. Edna driven from 
home. 

Act II. — July, eighteen months later. Jarvis opens the big store. 
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The overdue mortgage. Paul's theft. Edna accused. 

Act III. — October, three months later. The distress of Schultz. 
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ROCKY FORD 

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